Relationship Goals by Michael Todd
Week 3: Chapter 2 — Intentional Dating Over Recreational Dating
Read Chapter 2 of Relationship Goals by Michael Todd.
Previewing Week 3 of Relationship Goals
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 10-week guide when you’re ready.
Most of us have been dating for fun, for feelings, or to avoid loneliness — but Todd challenges us to ask a harder question: are we dating with purpose?
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Todd draws a sharp distinction between recreational dating (dating for the experience, the feelings, or the company) and intentional dating (dating as a purposeful search for a life partner). In your own words, what is the key difference between the two?
2.He argues that recreational dating treats people like an amusement park — something to enjoy for a season and then move on from. Have you seen (or lived) that pattern? What does it do to the people involved?
3.Intentional dating, according to Todd, means knowing what you're looking for before you start looking. What qualities — spiritual, emotional, practical — are genuinely non-negotiable for you in a future spouse? Have you ever written that list down?
a.Are there things on your 'list' that are really preferences (height, style, career) rather than true convictions? How do you tell the difference?
b.How does being honest about your own character factor into what you have the right to look for in someone else?